Supersonic jet maker says engines can power data centers, but weighs Colorado exit
Boom Supersonic is developing aircraft engine technology to power data centers, potentially solving energy and water consumption issues for the industry. However, the company is considering leaving Colorado due to increasingly restrictive data center regulations and temporary moratoriums in Denver and Jefferson County. Local officials are actively working to develop comprehensive policies for data center development.
Boom Supersonic, a Denver-based jet maker, is adapting its Overture supersonic jet engine technology for ground power generation to serve data centers, particularly those powering artificial intelligence. CEO Blake Scholl states their "Superpower" turbine can provide 42 megawatts, operate without water, and maintain full capacity in extreme temperatures, potentially allowing data centers to generate their own power and even sell electricity back to the grid.
Despite this innovation, Boom Supersonic is considering relocating from Colorado due to increasing regulatory pressures. Scholl noted to the Wall Street Journal that states like North Carolina and Texas would welcome them. This sentiment comes as both the City and County of Denver and Jefferson County recently imposed temporary moratoriums on new data center development, citing concerns over grid demand, water use, and environmental impact. Jefferson County Commissioner Rachel Zenzinger emphasized the need to evaluate interactions with the Wildland Urban Interface, water supply, and community health.
While Colorado lawmakers killed competing statewide bills aimed at regulating data centers, leaving oversight to the Public Utilities Commission, local jurisdictions like Denver are forming working groups to craft new policies. Daniel Riley, Vice President of Metro Denver Economic Development Corp., expressed concern over the Denver moratorium, warning it sets a troubling precedent for business engagement, despite acknowledging legitimate policy questions. Erin Brockovich has also launched a website for public reporting on data center concerns nationwide.
Currently, the CoreSite DE3 facility is the only permitted data center under construction in Denver's Globeville Elyria-Swansea neighborhood. City officials argue the moratorium is necessary to develop specific permitting requirements and thoughtful regulations, as data centers are not currently regulated explicitly within Denver.